Helping Our Troops: How You Can Help Military Families

June 10, 2011— -- Nearly 10 percent of Americans fought in World War II, yet today just 1 percent bear the burden of two wars. "World News With Diane Sawyer" began the week in Afghanistan, speaking with Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, Gen. David Petraeus and many of the troops serving in Afghanistan. Now we end the week by sharing the stories of the people here on the home front who take the time to brighten the days of our troops overseas and their families.

If you would like to get involved with helping those serving in the military and their families, you can reach out to any of the groups below for more information:

The White House's Joining Forces program provides an easy search tool to help you find a way to serve military families near your community. You can also use their web site to send a message directly to a family with a loved one serving overseas.

Project Evergreen: GreenCare for the Troops is a nationwide program that connects local green industry professionals with troops serving overseas and their families. They offer free lawn care and landscape services for the thousands of military families.

The National Military Families Association connects volunteers and donors with military families in need, providing everything from scholarships for military spouses to summer camps for military kids. On their web site, you can make a donation

Fisher House Foundation assists military families who travel to receive specialized medical care. Their "comfort homes" at military medical centers give families a place to stay when visiting a loved one.

The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society assists military families with programs that include financial counseling, scholarships and interest-free loans. The organization serves Sailors and Marines as well as their eligible family members.

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